The Spatial Development Framework reflects the spatial vision and objectives aimed at steering a city ’ s future economic growth and building investor confidence . In essence , the SDF presents a possible future whilst being cognisant of the past , present and future growth .
The importance of Spatial Development Framework ( SDF ) in development cannot be overemphasised , SDF plays an important role in shaping the spatial development of cities , their sustainability and inclusiveness as well as to assist them to recognise their true development potential .
How Does it Influence Growth ? The SDF can be used as a defining tool of facilitating a transformative agenda to set up strategies that will lead to the realisation of a city ’ s vision of building a compact , inclusive and connected city .
The SDF being a long term strategic plan , identifies economic nodes for stimulating growth , areas for housing needs and services . Importantly , the SDF identifies the main challenges and opportunities in a city , which could be defined as priority areas used in the city infrastructure investment model to stimulate growth .
The SDF sets the guiding vision that builds a concrete spatial strategy for the realisation of bridging the spatial and social barriers that exists in our societies .
Transformative Areas is one key spatial strategy that could be identified in the framework to unlock investment for future urban growth .
The Transformation Zone includes areas where investment is prioritised for future urban intensification and growth , as it has the capacity to trigger positive effects on a wider scale . The strategy focuses on creating compact developments of inclusive residential densities around public transit and economic hubs .
The Transformation Zone also indicates areas where the development of detailed spatial plans and where they do not exist already , will be prioritised . Building opportunities in neglected areas of the city and tacking issues of fragmented development triggers investor confidence .
Another important strategy is that of the Protection of the Natural Areas , this one is a key element in the structuring of the city ’ s development .
The SDF identifies natural assets that should be protected from development
SA Real Estate Investor Magazine MARCH 2022 33